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Shedding Light on the Dark Side: The UK Asbestos Industry's Independence Dilemma

Adam Fox • 3 October 2023

Achieving true independence in the asbestos industry is a complex and challenging task

Introduction to the UK asbestos industry

Asbestos, a mineral known for its heat resistance and durability, was once widely used in the construction industry in the United Kingdom. However, as its harmful health effects became apparent, the use of asbestos was banned in the UK in 1999. Despite this ban, the legacy of asbestos still lingers, posing significant health risks to those exposed to its fibres. In order to fully understand the current state of the UK asbestos industry, it is important to delve into the concept of independence within the industry.

The concept of independence in the industry

Independence, as it relates to the UK asbestos industry, refers to the ability of individuals and organisations within the industry to make impartial decisions, free from any external influence or conflict of interest. However, the reality is that achieving true independence in the asbestos industry is a complex and challenging task.

The conflict-of-interest dilemma

The conflict-of-interest dilemma arises when the interests of different stakeholders within the asbestos industry clash. For example, a company involved in asbestos removal may also have a financial interest in downplaying the health risks associated with asbestos exposure. This conflict of interest creates a significant obstacle to achieving independence within the industry.

Some asbestos surveying companies openly offer removal as well. This transparent approach can be advantageous for the client. However, it may also lead to survey rigging, suggesting a higher presence of asbestos on site than what is factual. This could also influence the advice provided by the company regarding the risk posed by the identified materials.

Deeper conflicts exist. Certain 'Accredited independent consultancies' covertly own asbestos removal companies. They might present a facade of impartiality by offering their removal management service to the client, putting the work out to tender to ensure a fair process. The client might see a higher cost, not knowing that the work eventually goes to the consultancy's own removal company under a different name. This hidden affiliation can lead to the client incurring substantially higher costs than necessary, not to mention the increased likelihood of sub-standard asbestos removal work being passed off as satisfactory in order to maintain their profit margins. This is all done right under the noses of accrediting bodies, the very bodies that are supposed to be driving the standards in the industry up and pushing the corruption out, yet they still fail to identify these hidden links between companies.

Price fixing and its impact on the industry

Price fixing, the illegal practice of colluding with competitors to set prices, has also played a significant role in compromising the independence of the UK asbestos industry. By artificially inflating prices, companies involved in price fixing can exploit the demand for asbestos-related products and services, further jeopardizing the safety of workers and the general public.

Uncovering price fixing and unethical practices

The discovery of price fixing and other unethical practices within the asbestos and demolition industries has been a pivotal moment in the fight for independence and transparency. Through investigations by regulatory bodies, such as the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA), and the exposure of internal company documents, the extent of these illegal practices has been revealed.

The CMA's recent investigation uncovered shocking details about the demolition industry's unscrupulous practices (which includes asbestos removal contracts). Ten UK-based firms were fined a staggering £59,334,957 for colluding on prices via illegal cartel agreements. Their rigged bids deceived customers into believing they were competitive, when they were not. Various firms were involved in instances of bid rigging between 2013 and 2018. The fines and the details surrounding this case highlight the insidious nature of these illegal activities, emphasising the need for vigilance and transparency in all industries, not just the asbestos sector.

This revelation has not only led to legal action against those involved but has also sparked a broader conversation about the need for stronger regulation and oversight within the industry.

The consequences of the independence dilemma

The lack of independence within the UK asbestos industry has had far-reaching consequences. The most significant of these is the continued exposure of individuals to asbestos fibres, leading to serious health conditions such as mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. Additionally, the lack of independence has eroded trust in the industry, making it difficult for legitimate businesses to operate and for consumers to make informed decisions.

The role of government and regulatory bodies

Government intervention and the role of regulatory bodies are crucial in addressing the independence dilemma within the UK asbestos industry. It is the responsibility of these entities to enforce regulations, conduct thorough inspections, and hold companies accountable for their actions. By ensuring that strict standards are in place and that non-compliance is met with severe penalties, the government can play a vital role in promoting independence and protecting public health.

It is clear that currently, inspections are not thorough enough, so whilst any accreditations awarded by these bodies are only an indication that certain standards are being met, it is still vital that the customer carries out their own due diligence to ensure they are being looked after ethically on all fronts.

Case studies highlighting the independence dilemma

Several case studies illustrate the challenges posed by the lack of independence in the UK asbestos industry. Aside from those already mentioned above there is another example, where a company were involved in the manufacture and distribution of asbestos-containing products while simultaneously downplaying the health risks to its workers. This also showcases the conflict of interest dilemma. These case studies serve as a reminder of the urgent need for change within the industry.

Steps towards a more transparent asbestos industry

In order to address the independence dilemma within the UK asbestos industry, several steps need to be taken. Firstly, there must be increased transparency and accountability across the board. This can be achieved through the establishment of a centralised database of asbestos-related information, mandatory reporting of asbestos-related incidents, and regular audits of asbestos removal and disposal practices.

Raising awareness and advocacy for change

Raising awareness about the independence dilemma within the UK asbestos industry is crucial to driving change. Through education campaigns, public forums, and media coverage, the general public can be made aware of the hidden dangers and unethical practices associated with asbestos. Additionally, advocacy groups can play a key role in lobbying for stronger regulations and supporting affected individuals.

Promoting transparency and accountability in the UK asbestos industry

Promoting transparency and accountability within the UK asbestos industry requires a multi-faceted approach. Companies involved in asbestos-related activities should be required to disclose any conflicts of interest and actively work towards eliminating them. Regulatory bodies must conduct regular audits and inspections to ensure compliance with regulations and take swift action against those found to be in violation. These audits need to go deeper than they currently do to ensure no information can be withheld.

By fostering a culture of transparency and accountability, the industry can move towards a safer and more ethical future.

Steps individuals and organizations can take to protect themselves

While the responsibility for addressing the independence dilemma lies largely with the government and regulatory bodies, individuals and organisations can also take steps to protect themselves. This includes looking beyond accreditation and conducting your own thorough research before engaging with any asbestos-related services, ensuring that companies have a solid track record, and seeking legal advice in cases of suspected negligence or exposure.

Conclusion: Moving towards a safer and more ethical asbestos industry

The UK asbestos industry's independence dilemma is a complex issue that requires a collective effort to address. By acknowledging the conflict-of-interest dilemma, uncovering hidden secrets, and taking steps towards transparency and accountability, the industry can move towards a safer and more ethical future. It is only through the combined efforts of government, regulatory bodies, individuals, and organisations that the dark side of the UK asbestos industry can be fully exposed and eradicated.

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Asbestos and the Circular Economy: Why It's Time to Stop Burying the Problem

by Adam Fox • 9 April 2025

Asbestos and the Circular Economy: Why It's Time to Stop Burying the Problem Twenty-five years after asbestos was banned in the UK, we’re still digging a hole—literally and metaphorically. Every day, across the country, asbestos waste is double-bagged, labelled, loaded into skips, and driven to landfill, where it will sit indefinitely, taking up valuable space, creating ongoing liability, and adding to our already bloated environmental burden. And yet, 2025 presents a different path. A smarter one. One that replaces disposal with repurposing, and turns a dangerous waste product into a useful, circular resource. The technology exists. So the question we should be asking isn’t “Can we recycle asbestos?” It’s “Why the hell aren’t we doing it already?” Landfill is Failing Us—But We’re Still Relying On It Let’s start with the basics. There are still over 1.5 million buildings in the UK that contain asbestos, most of them now approaching the end of their useful life. As these structures age or undergo refurbishment, the volume of asbestos waste is only going to increase. Right now, we handle that waste the same way we did decades ago: • Identify it • Remove it (usually under fully controlled conditions) • Seal it in heavy-duty plastic • Drive it to landfill • Bury it • Forget about it Except we don’t forget, do we? Because landfill space is running out. Disposal costs are going up. And the environmental cost? We’re only just starting to count it. There’s a Better Way—and It Already Works Here’s what most duty holders don’t realise: We no longer have to bury asbestos. Thanks to recent advances in thermal treatment technology, we now have a method that can safely denature asbestos, breaking down its fibrous structure and rendering it harmless. Companies like Thermal Recycling in the UK are already proving this is not science fiction. They’re using high temperatures to transform asbestos cement products—like corrugated roofing sheets—into an inert ceramic material that’s completely safe. But here's the best bit: That material isn’t just neutral. It’s useful. It can be crushed and graded into aggregate, which can be used in road construction, paving, and concrete mixes. Instead of creating a waste burden for the next generation, we’re creating a valuable, low-carbon building material. Why Aggregate Matters in the Carbon Equation The production of virgin aggregates—through mining and quarrying—is energy-intensive and environmentally damaging. It contributes significantly to CO₂ emissions and destroys natural landscapes. So by replacing some of that demand with recycled aggregate from denatured asbestos, we: • Cut carbon emissions • Reduce dependence on extraction • Shrink the environmental footprint of infrastructure projects • Extend the life of quarries and reduce waste tonnage That’s not just a win for waste management. That’s a win for the entire construction supply chain. And yet most people in the industry don’t even know it’s possible. Why Are We Still Burying What Could Be Reused? As someone who’s worked in asbestos compliance for over 20 years—and now helps business leaders manage risk more intelligently—I’ve seen the same patterns play out time and time again: • “We’ll just do what we’ve always done.” • “This project’s tight on budget—landfill’s cheaper, right?” • “We’re just following the usual route—it’s less risky.” Let’s be honest. That mindset is outdated, short-sighted, and lazy. Cost may always be a factor, but the belief that landfill is “cheaper” needs to be challenged. Once you factor in: • Long-term environmental costs • Reputational risk • Rising disposal fees • And the public pressure for sustainable practices Thermal recycling is already starting to make sense. Especially when the output is something usable, not something buried. Licensed Contractors: You Don’t Get a Free Pass Either This isn’t just about clients or duty holders. Licensed Asbestos Removal Contractors (LARC’s) have a moral obligation here too. And I say that not from a place of opinion—but from first-hand experience, day in and day out for over two decades. Too often, LARCs put profits over progress. They default to landfill because it’s faster, easier to price up, and keeps their margins clean. They know the alternatives exist—but they don’t explore them, let alone offer them to their clients. When you hold a licence from the HSE, you’re not just a business—you’re a guardian of public health. That comes with responsibility. Choosing the most sustainable, forward-thinking disposal route should be part of that. Especially when the technology is available, proven, and legal. It’s time for the industry to stop hiding behind what’s convenient and start leading from the front. A Moral Obligation for Everyone Involved Whether you’re a: • Local authority managing public buildings • Developer under pressure to go green • Commercial landlord looking to reduce liability • Or a licensed contractor with influence over disposal routes —you have a responsibility to look beyond the cheapest or fastest option. If there’s a proven, safe, and more sustainable way to manage asbestos, you have a duty to understand it before choosing to ignore it. Because let’s be honest: “We didn’t know” isn’t going to wash when the public starts asking why we’re still filling landfill sites with a problem we already have the technology to eliminate. So What Can You Do Differently? No one’s asking you to overhaul your entire waste strategy overnight. But you can—and should—start asking better questions: • “Is landfill our only option here?” • “Could this waste stream be recycled instead of buried?” • “What suppliers, contractors, or experts do we know who can help us explore this?” You don’t have to be a global pioneer. But if you’re in a position of responsibility, you should at least be aware that the old way isn’t the only way anymore. Final Thought: The Future Is Circular—Whether You Join In or Not Asbestos will be with us for decades to come. That’s a fact. But how we handle it—and whether we choose to keep repeating the past or do something smarter—is up to us. Thermal recycling and other denaturing technologies offer a rare opportunity to do something that actually moves the industry forward. Not just ticking the compliance box. Not just burying the problem. But solving it—and turning it into something useful in the process. If you’re involved in asbestos management in even the slightest way, ask yourself this: Are you part of the problem, or part of the solution?